Government plans to licence on-the-runs

The Government has announced plans to deal with the question of fugitive terrorist suspects, the so-called on-the-runs (OTRs).

The scheme is based upon the proposals set out in May 2003 for a two-stage process and fulfils commitments to address the issue of terrorist suspects on the run. It could involve up to 150 people wanted for crimes committed before the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. They would then have their cases heard by a special tribunal, and if found guilty would be freed on licence without having to go to jail.

Minister of State David Hanson said: “The Government is aware that this is a very difficult issue, and one which will be hard for many people to accept. However, sometimes it is necessary to make difficult decisions in the interests of entrenching the benefits of peace. This is one such occasion.

“We want to close the door on Northern Ireland’s past of violence and paramilitarism, and this legislation is one step in that effort.”

However, Ulster Unionist leader Sir Reg Empey hit out at the plans following a meeting with Irish Taoisech Bertie Ahern.

Speaking following Wednesday's meeting in Dublin, Sir Reg said: "The Prime Minister [Tony Blair] is guilty of sending out completely mixed messages.

"On the one hand he is proposing an effective amnesty for some of the most barbaric terrorists in this part of the UK, on the other he proposes tough new laws for terrorists and terrorist related activity on the mainland."

The scheme covers offences committed in relation to terrorism and the affairs of Northern Ireland before the Belfast Agreement.

This includes offences committed in any part of the UK.

(MB/SP)